Panerai Luminor Submersible: The New Draft
In the world of Panerai, all watches are bold, but some are bolder than others. The Luminor Submersible has always been part of that last category and achieved this not always by sheer size, but more so by its imposing design. Panerai recently introduced six new models in this collection. Time for us to take a closer look at the recruits of the new draft!
What is perhaps most imposing about these new additions are the different materials that Panerai used for the cases. Stainless steel, titanium, bronze, and red gold are all represented. These various materials give each Submersible their own character without diluting the DNA that they all share. Next, to that did Panerai also made a distinct choice regarding size, which seems to be closely related to the material they made the case of. Unique is the version with the BMG-Tech case, for which Panerai used a high-temperature, high-pressure injection process with a rapidly cooling phase. This prevents the atoms to arrange themselves in their usual patterns, creating a light, highly corrosive resistant alloy.
Two of the new 47mm models are crafted from titanium. The Luminor Submersible 1950 3 Days Automatic is a very capable diving watch, with a water resistance of 300 meters and an emphasis on legibility. The 47mm case most certainly helps with this, while the titanium keeps the weight comfortable. The Luminor Submersible 1950 Amagnetic 3 Days Automatic also features a titanium case, yet here with a differently designed dial, black bezel insert and a greater resistance to magnetic interference thanks to a soft iron case around the movement.
Another of the new models that feature a 47mm case is the Luminor Submersible 1950 3 Days Automatic Bronzo. Crafted from a traditional alloy of copper and pure tin, this watch is highly corrosive resistance but will take on over time a unique patina as a result of the environment it is exposed to. A 47mm bronze watch is quite substantial to have on the wrist, but the patina that will form makes it worth it. A larger case simply makes it that it will be better visible, and more of it as well. Next to that is the combination of the deep colored bronze and the blue dial quite stunning.
42mm was the case size of choice for the stainless steel and 18K red gold version. The stainless steel version enters, thanks to its size, a very competitive area in the market and seems to have everything working in its favor to do well. It is large enough to provide that bold look, but not overly so. The stainless steel gives it a pleasant weight, the size of the case prevents it from becoming too much. Its DNA is distinct, and also runs into that automatic manufacture movement that all the new Submersibles have. For the 18K red gold version 42mm also seems to be optimum size. Being made from precious metal, it is a watch that some might want to wear in a more formal capacity, despite (or maybe because of) its rugged looks. A smaller diameter makes this a bit more agreeable, as it might even fit under the cuff of your shirt and jacket.
What is most exceptional is that with the new Submersible’s Panerai seems to have found a way to created different versions that appeal to different parts of the market, while keeping its DNA strong in all of them. Not the easiest of accomplishments, but for sure one that will give these new recruits a head start in what looks like a promising career.
